FIGS Inc

Previous wording

Our historical growth may not be sustainable or indicative of future growth, and we expect our growth rate to slow over time.

Current wording

Our historical growth may not be sustainable or indicative of future results.

Previous wording

Our historical rate of growth may not be sustainable or indicative of our future rate of growth, and in the near term, we expect our net revenues to grow more slowly than in the past or to decline, and in the long term our net revenues could grow more slowly than we expect. We believe that growth in net revenues, as well as our ability to improve or maintain margins and profitability, will depend upon, among other factors, our ability to address the challenges, risks and difficulties described elsewhere in this “Risk Factors” section. We cannot provide assurance that we will be able to successfully manage any such challenges or risks to our future growth. Any of these factors could cause our net revenues growth to slow or decline and may adversely affect our margins and profitability. Even if our net revenues continue to increase, we expect that our growth rate could be negatively impacted due to a number of other reasons, including if there is a slowdown in the growth of demand for our products, increased competition, a decrease in the growth or reduction in the size of our overall market or if we cannot capitalize on growth opportunities. Failure to continue to grow our net revenues or improve or maintain margins would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. You should not rely on our historical rate of growth as an indication of our future performance.

Current wording

Our historical rate of growth may not be sustainable or indicative of our future results. We believe that growth in net revenues, as well as our ability to improve or maintain margins and profitability, will depend upon, among other factors, our ability to address the challenges, risks and difficulties described elsewhere in this “Risk Factors” section. We cannot provide assurance that we will be able to successfully manage any such challenges or risks to our future growth. Any of these factors could cause our net revenues growth to slow or decline and may adversely affect our margins and profitability. Even if our net revenues increase, we expect that our growth rate could be negatively impacted due to a number of other reasons, including if there is a slowdown in the growth of demand for our products, increased competition, a decrease in the growth or reduction in the size of our overall market or if we cannot capitalize on growth opportunities. Failure to grow our net revenues or improve or maintain margins would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. You should not rely on our historical rate of growth as an indication of our future performance.

Previous wording

To manage the expansion of our business effectively, we must continue to implement our operational plans and strategies, improve and expand our infrastructure of people and information systems and expand, train and manage our employee base. We face significant competition for personnel, including in Southern California, where our headquarters is located. To attract top talent, we may need to increase our employee compensation levels to remain competitive in attracting and retaining talented employees. In addition, we could be required to continue to expand our sales and marketing, product development and distribution functions, to upgrade our management information systems and other processes and technology and to obtain more space for our expanding workforce. Additionally, the growth of our business places significant demands on our existing management and other employees. Failure to manage our employee base and hiring needs effectively, including successfully integrating our new hires, may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

To manage the expansion of our business effectively, we must continue to implement our operational plans and strategies, improve and expand our infrastructure of people and information systems and expand, train and manage our employee base. We face significant competition for personnel, including in Southern California, where our headquarters is located. To attract top talent, we may need to increase our employee compensation levels to remain competitive in attracting and retaining talented employees. In addition, we could be required to continue to expand certain departments, to upgrade our management information systems and other processes and technology and to obtain more space for our workforce. Additionally, the growth of our business places significant demands on our existing management and other employees. Failure to manage our employee base and hiring needs effectively, including successfully integrating our new hires, may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

In addition, we are required to manage relationships with a growing number of customers, suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and other third parties. If we are unable to expand supply, manufacturing and distribution capabilities when required, or our information technology systems and our other processes are inadequate to support the future growth of these relationships, we could experience delays in customer service and order response and shipping times, which would adversely impact our reputation and brand. If we are unable to manage the growth of our organization effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.

Current wording

In addition, we are required to manage relationships with a growing number of customers, suppliers, manufacturers and other third parties. If we are unable to expand supply, manufacturing and distribution capabilities when required, or our information technology systems and our other processes are inadequate to support the future growth of these relationships, we could experience, and from time to time have experienced, delays in customer service and order response and shipping times, which could adversely impact our reputation and brand. If we are unable to manage the growth of our organization effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We have not always been profitable. We expect our operating expenses to increase in the future as we increase our sales and marketing efforts, continue to invest in developing new products, hire additional personnel, expand our operating infrastructure and expand into new geographies. Further, as a public company, we incur additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. Additionally, stock-based compensation expense related to equity awards has been and may from time to time be a significant expense in future periods, which impacts our net income. These efforts and additional expenses may be more costly than we expect, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to increase our net revenues to offset our increased operating expenses. In the near term, we expect our net revenues to to grow more slowly than in the past or to decline, and over the long term our net revenues growth may slow for a number of other reasons, including if we experience reduced demand for our products, increased competition, a decrease in the growth or reduction in the size of our overall market or if we cannot capitalize on growth opportunities. If our net revenues do not grow at a greater rate than our operating expenses, we will not be able to maintain the level of profitability that we have achieved.

Current wording

We have not always been profitable. We expect our operating expenses to increase in the future as we increase our sales and marketing efforts, continue to invest in developing new products, including new fabrics, hire additional personnel as needed, expand our operating infrastructure, Community Hubs footprint and TEAMS capabilities, and expand into new geographies. Further, as a public company, we incur additional legal, accounting, and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. Additionally, stock-based compensation expense related to equity awards has been, and may from time to time be, a significant expense in future periods, which impacts our net income. These efforts and additional expenses may be more costly than we expect, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to increase our net revenues to offset our increased operating expenses. In the near term, we expect our net revenues to decline, and over the long term our net revenues growth may slow for a number of other reasons, including if we experience reduced demand for our products, increased competition, a decrease in the growth or reduction in the size of our overall market or if we cannot capitalize on growth opportunities. If our net revenues do not grow at a greater rate than our operating expenses, we will not be able to maintain the level of profitability that we have achieved.

Previous wording

Our success depends in large part upon widespread adoption of our products by healthcare professionals. In order to attract new customers and continue to expand our customer base, we must appeal to and attract healthcare professionals who identify with our products. If the number of healthcare professionals who are willing to purchase our products does not continue to increase, if we fail to deliver a high quality shopping experience or if our current or potential future customers are not convinced that our products are superior to alternatives, then our ability to retain existing customers, acquire new customers and grow our business may be harmed. We have made significant investments in enhancing our brand and attracting new customers, and we expect to continue to make significant investments to promote our products, including marketing campaigns that can be expensive and may not always result in new customers or increased sales of our products. These factors, in turn, have from time to time increased and may again increase our customer acquisition costs over time. As our brand becomes more widely known, we may not attract new customers or increase our net revenues at historical rates, or retain existing customers to the same extent as we have in the past. For example, while the number of our active customers continues to increase, in the quarter ended December 31, 2023, we did not add new customers at the same accelerated rates as we have in the past and have seen the frequency of repeat purchases decline. If we are unable to acquire new customers or retain existing customers who purchase products in numbers sufficient to grow our business, we may not be able to generate the scale necessary to drive beneficial network effects with our suppliers, our net revenues may decrease, and our business, financial condition and operating results may be adversely affected.

Current wording

Our success depends in large part upon widespread adoption of our products by healthcare professionals. In order to attract new customers and continue to expand our customer base, we must appeal to and attract healthcare professionals who identify with our products. If the number of healthcare professionals who are willing to purchase our products does not continue to increase, if we fail to deliver a high quality shopping experience or if our current or potential future customers are not convinced that our products are superior to alternatives, then our ability to retain existing customers, acquire new customers and grow our business may be harmed. We have made significant investments in enhancing our brand and attracting new customers, and we expect to continue to make significant investments to promote our products, including marketing campaigns that can be expensive and may not always result in new customers or increased sales of our products. These factors, in turn, have from time to time increased and may again increase our customer acquisition costs over time. As our brand becomes more widely known, we may not attract new customers or increase our net revenues at historical rates, or retain existing customers to the same extent as we have in the past. For example, we have recently not added new customers at the same rates as we have in the past. If we are unable to acquire new customers or retain existing customers who purchase products in numbers sufficient to grow our business, we may not be able to generate the scale necessary to drive beneficial network effects with our suppliers, our net revenues may decrease, and our business, financial condition, and operating results may be adversely affected.

Previous wording

In addition, our future success depends in part on our ability to increase sales to our existing customers over time, as a significant portion of our net revenues are generated from sales to existing customers, particularly those existing customers who are highly engaged and make frequent and/or large purchases of the products we offer. If existing customers no longer find our products appealing, are not satisfied with our customer service, including shipping times, or if we are unable to timely update our products to meet current trends and customer demands, our existing customers may not make purchases, or if they do, they may make fewer or smaller purchases in the future.

Current wording

In addition, our future success depends in part on our ability to increase sales to our existing customers over time. A significant portion of our net revenues are generated from sales to existing customers, particularly those existing customers who are highly engaged and make frequent and/or large purchases of the products we offer. If existing customers no longer find our products appealing, are not satisfied with our customer service, including shipping times, or if we are unable to timely update our products to meet current trends and customer demands, our existing customers may not make purchases, or if they do, they may make fewer or smaller purchases in the future.

Previous wording

Moreover, our success depends in part on the condition of the healthcare workforce. There have been reports of rising fatigue and stress among workers in the healthcare industry, in part as a result of heightened demand on, and for, healthcare workers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which we believe may be impacting customer purchasing behavior. As a replenishment-driven healthcare apparel brand, demand for our products may be impacted by healthcare workforce-related stress, including if the number of employed healthcare workers were to decline.

Current wording

Moreover, our success depends in part on the condition of the healthcare workforce. There have been reports of elevated fatigue and stress among workers in the healthcare industry, which we believe may be impacting customer purchasing behavior. As a replenishment-driven healthcare apparel brand, demand for our products may be impacted by healthcare workforce-related stress, including if the number of employed healthcare workers were to decline.

Previous wording

If we are unable to continue to attract new customers or our existing customers decrease their spending on the products we offer or fail to make repeat purchases of our products, our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects will be harmed.

Current wording

If we are unable to attract new customers or our existing customers decrease their spending on the products we offer or fail to make repeat purchases of our products, our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects will be harmed.

Previous wording

We create differentiated brand marketing content and utilize performance marketing to drive customers from awareness to consideration to conversion, and promoting awareness of our brand and products is important to our ability to grow our business, drive customer engagement and attract new customers. Our marketing strategy includes brand marketing campaigns across platforms, including email, digital, display, site, direct-mail, commercials, social media, out-of-home campaigns and ambassadors, as well as performance marketing efforts, including retargeting, paid search and product listing advertisements, paid social media advertisements, search engine optimization, personalized email and mobile push notifications through our mobile app.

Current wording

We create differentiated brand marketing content and utilize performance marketing to drive customers from awareness to consideration to conversion, and promoting awareness of our brand and products is important to our ability to grow our business, drive customer engagement and attract new customers. Our marketing strategy includes brand marketing campaigns across platforms, including email, digital, display, site, direct-mail, commercials, social media, out-of-home campaigns, and ambassadors, as well as performance marketing efforts, including retargeting, paid search and product listing advertisements, paid social media advertisements, search engine optimization, personalized emails and mobile push notifications through our mobile app.

Previous wording

Our ambassadors could engage in behavior or use their platforms in a manner that reflects poorly on our brand or is in violation of applicable regulations or platform terms of service, and may be attributed to us. Negative commentary regarding us, our products or ambassadors and other third parties who are affiliated with us, whether accurate or not, may be posted on social media platforms at any time and may adversely affect our reputation, brand and business. The harm may be immediate, without affording us an opportunity for redress or correction and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our ambassadors could engage in behavior or use their platforms in a manner that reflects poorly on our brand or is in violation of applicable regulations or platform terms of service, and may be attributed to us. Negative commentary regarding us, our products or ambassadors and other third parties who are affiliated with us, whether accurate or not, may be publicized, including on social media platforms, at any time and may adversely affect our reputation, brand and business. The harm may be immediate, without affording us an opportunity for redress or correction and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

In addition, customer complaints or negative publicity related to our website, mobile app, products, product delivery times, customer data handling, marketing efforts, security practices or customer support, especially on blogs and social media websites, could diminish customer loyalty and community engagement.

Current wording

In addition, customer complaints or negative publicity related to our website, mobile app, Community Hubs, products, product delivery times, customer data handling, marketing efforts, security practices or customer support, especially on blogs and social media websites, could diminish customer loyalty and community engagement.

Previous wording

Further, our new products and innovations, including to fit, style and fabric, on existing and future products may not, and from time to time have not, received the same level of customer acceptance as our products or innovations have in the past. Customer preferences could change, especially as we expand our product offerings beyond our core scrubwear, and our future success depends in part on our ability to anticipate and respond to these changes. Our failure to anticipate and respond in a timely manner to changing customer preferences could lead to, among other things, lower sales, excess inventory or inventory shortages, markdowns and write-offs and diminished brand loyalty. Even if we are successful in anticipating customer needs and preferences, our ability to adequately address those needs and preferences will in part depend upon our continued ability to develop and introduce innovative, high quality products and designs and maintain our distinctive brand identity as we expand the range of products we offer. A failure to effectively introduce new products or innovations on existing products that appeal to our customers could result in a decrease in net revenues and excess inventory levels, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Further, our new products and innovations, including to fit, style, and fabric, on existing and future products may not, and from time to time have not, received the same level of customer acceptance as our products or innovations have in the past. Customer preferences could change, especially as we expand our product offerings beyond our core scrubwear, and our future success depends in part on our ability to anticipate and respond to these changes. If we fail to anticipate and respond in a timely manner to changing customer preferences or if customers do not accept our new products or innovations, including to fit, style and fabric, we could experience, among other things, lower sales, excess inventory or inventory shortages, markdowns and write-offs, increases in donations and diminished brand loyalty. Even if we are successful in anticipating customer needs and preferences, our ability to adequately address those needs and preferences will in part depend upon our continued ability to develop and introduce innovative, high quality products and designs and maintain our distinctive brand identity as we expand the range of products we offer. A failure to effectively introduce new products or innovations on existing products that appeal to our customers could result in a decrease in net revenues and excess inventory levels, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Additionally, the loss of any key team members could make it more difficult to manage our business, including operations, research, development, production, marketing, design, merchandising, engineering and finance activities, reduce our employee retention and net revenues and impair our ability to compete. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain key team members, these agreements have no specific duration and constitute at-will employment. We have not obtained key man life insurance policies on any of our senior management team. As a result, we would have no way to cover the financial loss if we were to lose the services of members of our senior management team.

Current wording

Additionally, the loss of any key team members could make it more difficult to manage our business, including operations, research, development, production, marketing, design, merchandising, engineering and finance activities, reduce our employee retention and net revenues and impair our ability to compete. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain key team members, these agreements generally have no specific duration and constitute at-will employment. We have not obtained key man life insurance policies on any of our senior management team. As a result, we would have no way to cover the financial loss if we were to lose the services of members of our senior management team.

Previous wording

Our current operations and customer base are based largely in the United States, and our future growth depends in part on our ongoing expansion efforts outside of the United States. While we currently ship to certain countries in North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific region and the Middle East, we have a limited number of customers and experience operating outside of the United States. We also have limited experience with regulatory environments and market practices outside of the United States and cannot guarantee that we will be able to penetrate or successfully operate in any market outside of the United States. In connection with our expansion efforts, we have from time to time encountered, and may in the future continue to encounter, obstacles we do not face in the United States, including cultural and linguistic differences, differences in regulatory environments and market practices, difficulties in keeping abreast of market, business and technical developments and foreign customers’ tastes and preferences.

Current wording

Our current operations and customer base are based largely in the United States, and our future growth depends in part on our ongoing expansion efforts outside of the United States. While we currently ship to certain countries in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, the Asia Pacific region and the Middle East, we have a relatively limited number of customers and experience operating outside of the United States. We also have relatively limited experience with regulatory environments and market practices outside of the United States and cannot guarantee that we will be able to penetrate or successfully operate in any market outside of the United States. In connection with our expansion efforts, we have from time to time encountered, and may in the future continue to encounter, obstacles we do not face in the United States, including cultural and linguistic differences, differences in regulatory environments and market practices, difficulties in keeping abreast of market, business and technical developments and foreign customers’ tastes and preferences.

Previous wording

• complexity and other risks associated with current and future legal requirements in other countries, including legal requirements related to medical apparel, customer advertising protection, customer product safety and data privacy and security frameworks, such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (the “GDPR”) and the UK GDPR;

Current wording

• complexity and other risks associated with current and future legal requirements in other countries, including legal requirements related to medical apparel, customer advertising protection, customer product safety, sustainability disclosure, artificial intelligence and data privacy and security frameworks, such as the EU GDPR and the UK GDPR;

Previous wording

• tariffs and other non-tariff barriers, such as quotas and local content rules, as well as tax consequences;

Current wording

• tariffs and other non-tariff barriers, such as quotas, local content rules and local import regulations, as well as tax consequences;

Previous wording

• political or social unrest, economic instability or armed conflict in a specific country or region in which we operate, including, for example, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and violence in the Middle East.

Current wording

• political or social unrest, economic instability or armed conflict in a specific country or region in which we operate, including, for example, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East.

Previous wording

We currently rely on third-party global logistics and shipping providers to ship raw materials, receive inbound inventory and deliver our products. If we are not able to negotiate acceptable pricing and other terms with these providers, or if these providers experience performance problems or other difficulties in delivering inventory, processing our orders or delivering our products to customers, it could negatively impact our results of operations and our customers’ experience. Furthermore, changes to the terms of our shipping arrangements or the imposition of surcharges or surge pricing have in the past and may in the future adversely impact our margins and profitability. For example, volatility in the global oil markets, including as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, other wars or armed conflicts, or changes in global supply generally, has from time to time resulted in higher fuel prices, which shipping companies have from time to time passed on to their customers by way of increased fuel surcharges. We have from time to time experienced increased shipping costs as a result of these and other factors, and these costs may continue to increase in the future. We may not be able to or choose to pass such increases on to our customers in the future.

Current wording

We currently rely on third-party global logistics and shipping providers to ship raw materials, receive inbound inventory and deliver our products to our customers. If we are not able to negotiate acceptable pricing and other terms with these providers, or if these providers experience performance problems or other difficulties in delivering inventory, processing our orders or delivering our products to customers, it could negatively impact our results of operations and our customers’ experience. Furthermore, changes to the terms of our shipping arrangements or the imposition of surcharges, surge pricing or accessorials have in the past and may in the future adversely impact our margins and profitability. For example, volatility in the global oil markets, including as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East and other wars or armed conflicts, and changes in global supply generally, have from time to time resulted in higher fuel prices, which shipping companies have from time to time passed on to their customers by way of increased fuel surcharges. We have from time to time experienced increased shipping costs as a result of these and other factors, and these costs may continue to increase in the future. We may not be able to or choose to pass such increases on to our customers in the future.

Previous wording

Our supply of raw materials and ability to receive inbound inventory efficiently and ship merchandise to customers, including at costs to which we are accustomed, may also be negatively affected by military conflicts, political or social instability, or terrorism. For example, following the recent outbreak of conflict and violence in the Middle East, there has been an increase in attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea, causing disruptions in an important route for global trade. Such disruptions have affected global ocean freight traffic, caused shipping delays and increased freight costs. As a result, we have experienced delays in the delivery of raw materials to, and finished goods from, our manufacturers in Jordan and elsewhere, as well as rising ocean freight rates. Although we have not yet experienced a material disruption to our supply chain and have sought alternative ways to ship raw materials and receive inventory, such as selecting new vessel routes, alternative ports and using air freight from time to time, we expect that if there are continued or increased hostilities in the Middle East, there could be increases in shipping times and ocean and air freight rates, as well as impacts to our supply chain, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our supply of raw materials and ability to receive inbound inventory efficiently and ship merchandise to customers, including at costs to which we are accustomed, may also be negatively affected by military conflicts, political or social instability, or terrorism. For example, as a result of ongoing conflict in the Middle East, there have been disruptions in commercial shipping transiting the Red Sea and surrounding waterways. Such disruptions have affected global ocean freight traffic, caused shipping delays and increased freight costs. As a result, we have experienced delays in the delivery of raw materials to, and finished goods from, our manufacturers in Jordan and elsewhere, as well as elevated ocean freight rates and shipping costs. Although we have not experienced a material disruption to our supply chain and have sought alternative ways to ship raw materials and receive inventory, such as selecting new vessel routes and alternative ports, using increased air freight from time to time, pre-negotiating ocean freight shipping rates, and adjusting our product launch schedule to account for delays, if there are continued or increased hostilities in the Middle East, there could be continued increases in shipping times and ocean and air freight rates, as well as other impacts to our supply chain, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

In addition, the operations of our third-party providers have in the past been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and may in the future be disrupted by other pandemics or health crises. For example, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, strained parcel carrier networks resulted in extended outbound shipping times generally and additional shipping costs. COVID-19 or any future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease may adversely affect workforces and supply chains globally, potentially impacting the operations of our third-party shipping providers, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

In addition, the operations of our third-party providers have in the past been disrupted, and may in the future again be disrupted, by pandemics or health crises. For example, in the past, the COVID-19 pandemic strained parcel carrier networks and caused extended outbound shipping times generally and additional shipping costs. Future pandemics, epidemics or outbreaks of an infectious disease may adversely affect workforces and supply chains globally, potentially impacting the operations of our third-party shipping providers, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Weather, fires, floods, power loss, earthquakes, or other events specifically impacting our or other shipping partners, such as labor disputes or shortages, financial difficulties, system failures and other disruptions to the operations of the shipping companies on which we rely, may also negatively our ability to ship raw materials, receive inbound inventory and ship merchandise to customers efficiently and cost-effectively. For instance, a strike, or threat of a strike, by employees of any of our third-party global providers, other parcel carriers or by port workers, or a work slow-down or other transportation disruption in the ports of Los Angeles or Long Beach, California, where we generally import our products into the U.S., could significantly disrupt our business. We have in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, shipping delays for reasons outside of our control.

Current wording

We have in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, shipping delays for other reasons outside of our control. For example, weather, fires, floods, power loss, earthquakes, or other events specifically impacting our or other shipping partners, such as labor disputes or shortages, financial difficulties, system failures and other disruptions to the operations of the shipping companies on which we rely, may negatively our ability to ship raw materials, receive inbound inventory and ship merchandise to customers efficiently and cost-effectively. A strike, threat of a strike, work slow-down or other disruptions at any of our third-party global providers, other parcel carriers or by port workers at major international shipping hubs, including at the ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York and New Jersey, each of which we use to import our products into the U.S., could also significantly disrupt our business. For instance, the International Longshoremen’s Association, which represents workers at east coast ports, recently went on strike briefly, which caused us to select new vessel routes, use additional air freight and adjust our product launch schedule to mitigate delays. Additional strikes in the future could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

If we experience problems with our distribution and warehouse management systems, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory, complete sales and achieve objectives for operating efficiencies could be harmed.

Current wording

If we experience problems with our distribution center’s operational infrastructure, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory, complete sales and achieve objectives for operating efficiencies could be harmed.

Previous wording

We currently rely on our fulfillment center in the City of Industry, California, which is operated by our third-party logistics provider, for all of our product distribution. As part of our fulfillment enhancement project, we intend to transition all fulfillment operations from our City of Industry location to a new fulfillment center we have leased. We also from time to time rely on several additional third-party storage locations to house inventory. Our fulfillment center and storage locations include computer-controlled and automated equipment and rely on warehouse management systems to manage supply chain fulfillment operations, which means our operations are complicated, require coordination between our fulfillment, storage and retail operations, and are subject to a number of risks related to cybersecurity, the proper operation of software and hardware, including connections between software and/or hardware, electronic or power interruptions or other system failures. In addition, because all of our products are distributed from our City of Industry fulfillment center, and following the completion of our transition to our new fulfillment center, will all be distributed from that location, our operations could also be interrupted by labor difficulties, or by floods, fires or other natural disasters near our fulfillment center and storage locations. We maintain business interruption insurance, but it may not adequately protect us from the adverse effects that could result from significant disruptions to our distribution system, such as the long-term loss of customers or an erosion of our brand image. Moreover, if we or our third-party logistics provider are unable to adequately staff our fulfillment center to meet demand or if the cost of such staffing is higher than historical or projected costs due to mandated wage increases, regulatory changes, hazard pay, international expansion or other factors, some of which has occurred from time to time and may occur again in the future, our results of operations could be harmed.

Current wording

During the year ended December 31, 2024, we completed our previously announced transition of all fulfillment operations from our previous City of Industry location to a new fulfillment center we have leased in Goodyear, Arizona, which is operated by a third-party logistics provider and is now our sole location for product distribution. We also from time to time rely on several additional third-party storage locations to house inventory and for other logistics purposes. Our fulfillment center and storage locations include computer-controlled and automated equipment and rely on warehouse management systems to manage supply chain fulfillment operations, which means our operations are complicated, require coordination between our fulfillment, storage and retail operations, and are subject to a number of risks related to cybersecurity, the proper operation of software and hardware, including connections between software and/or hardware, electronic or power interruptions or other system failures, some of which have occurred from time to time. In addition, because all of our products are distributed from our Goodyear fulfillment center, our operations could also be interrupted by labor difficulties, or by floods, fires or other natural disasters near our fulfillment center or other locations we may use from time to time. We maintain business interruption insurance, but it may not adequately protect us from the adverse effects that could result from significant disruptions to our distribution system, such as the long-term loss of customers or an erosion of our brand image. Moreover, if we or our third-party logistics provider are unable to adequately staff our fulfillment center to meet demand or if the cost of such staffing is higher than historical or projected costs due to mandated wage increases, regulatory changes, hazard pay, international expansion or other factors, some of which has occurred from time to time and may occur again in the future, our results of operations could be harmed.

Previous wording

Operating a fulfillment center comes with additional potential risks, such as workplace safety issues and employment claims for the failure or alleged failure to comply with labor laws or laws respecting union organizing activities. Our distribution capacity is also dependent on the timely performance of services by third parties, including the shipping of our products to and from our distribution facility. We will need to operate additional fulfillment centers in the future to keep pace with the growth of our business, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to locate suitable facilities on commercially acceptable terms in accordance with our expansion plans, nor can we assure you that we will be able to recruit qualified managerial and operational personnel to support our expansion plans. If we encounter problems with our distribution and warehouse management systems, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory and fulfillment capacity, complete sales, fulfill orders in a timely manner and achieve objectives for operating efficiencies could be harmed, which could also harm our reputation and our relationship with our customers.

Current wording

Operating a fulfillment center comes with additional potential risks, such as workplace safety issues and employment claims for the failure or alleged failure to comply with labor laws or laws respecting union organizing activities. Our distribution capacity is also dependent on the timely performance of services by third parties, including the shipping of our products to and from our facilities. We will need, and intend, to operate additional fulfillment centers in the future to keep pace with the growth of our business, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to locate suitable facilities on commercially acceptable terms in accordance with our expansion plans, nor can we assure you that we will be able to recruit qualified managerial and operational personnel to support our expansion plans. If we encounter problems with our operational infrastructure, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory and fulfillment capacity, complete sales, fulfill orders in a timely manner and achieve objectives for operating efficiencies could be harmed, which could also harm our reputation and our relationship with our customers.

Previous wording

In addition, operations at our fulfillment center may also be disrupted by pandemics. For example, like other similarly situated companies, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic we have from time to time experienced, and may from time to time experience in the future (including as a result of any future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease), inbound shipping delays of our product and labor shortages in our fulfillment center that impact our ability to fulfill orders on the timeline to which we have been accustomed. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected, and any future pandemics, epidemics or other health crises may adversely affect workforces and supply chains globally, potentially impacting the operations of our third-party logistics provider, which could negatively impact our business and results of operations.

Current wording

In addition, fulfillment center operations may also be disrupted by epidemics or pandemics. For example, like other similarly situated companies, we have from time to time experienced, and may from time to time experience in the future, inbound shipping delays of our product and labor shortages in our fulfillment center that impact our ability to fulfill orders on the timeline to which we have been accustomed. Any future pandemics, epidemics or other health crises may adversely affect workforces and supply chains globally, potentially impacting the operations of our third-party logistics provider, which could negatively impact our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

We base our current and future inventory needs and expense levels on our operating forecasts and estimates of future demand. To ensure adequate inventory supply, we must be able to forecast inventory needs and expenses and place orders sufficiently in advance with our suppliers and manufacturers, based on our estimates of future demand for particular products. Our ability to forecast demand for our products has from time to time been and will continue to be affected by various factors, including unanticipated changes in general market conditions (for example, because of effects on inventory supply and consumer demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and high inflation rates), economic conditions or consumer confidence in future economic conditions and geopolitical conditions. Failure to accurately forecast demand may result in inefficient inventory supply or increased costs. This risk may be exacerbated by the fact that we may not carry a significant amount of inventory and may not be able to satisfy short-term demand increases. In addition, if we experience increased shipping times from our suppliers and manufacturers and/or production disruptions, we may experience a shortage of products available for sale. Alternatively, if we advance the timing of inventory shipments to mitigate perceived freight transit time volatility and/or sales below our expectations, we may experience excess inventory levels. For example, faster than anticipated ocean freight transit times following our decision to increase weeks of supply during periods of ocean freight transit time volatility, and sales below our expectations as a result of inflationary pressure on consumer spending, have from time to time resulted in increased levels of inventory on hand, which has from time to time resulted in increased storage needs and costs. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may also result in inventory write-downs or write-offs and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices, which would cause our gross margin to suffer and could impair the strength and premium nature of our brand.

Current wording

We base our current and future inventory needs and expense levels on our operating forecasts and estimates of future demand. To ensure adequate inventory supply, we must be able to forecast inventory needs and expenses and place orders sufficiently in advance with our suppliers and manufacturers, based on our estimates of future demand for particular products. Our ability to forecast demand for our products has from time to time been, and will continue to be, affected by various factors, including unanticipated changes in general market conditions, economic conditions or consumer confidence in future economic conditions and geopolitical conditions. Failure to accurately forecast demand may result in inefficient inventory supply or increased costs. This risk may be exacerbated by the fact that we may not carry a significant amount of inventory and may not be able to satisfy short-term demand increases. In addition, if we experience increased shipping times from our suppliers and manufacturers and/or production disruptions, we may experience a shortage of products available for sale. Alternatively, if we advance the timing of inventory shipments to mitigate perceived freight transit time volatility and/or sales below our expectations, we may experience excess inventory levels. For example, faster than anticipated ocean freight transit times following our decision to increase weeks of supply during periods of ocean freight transit time volatility, and sales below our expectations as a result of inflationary pressure on consumer spending, have from time to time resulted in increased levels of inventory on hand, which has from time to time resulted in increased storage needs and costs. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may also result in inventory write-downs or write-offs, increases in donations and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices, some of which have occurred from time and which could cause our gross margin to suffer or impair the strength and premium nature of our brand.

Previous wording

Consumer confidence, shopping behavior and spending have been and may continue to be negatively impacted by factors beyond our control, including supply chain disruptions, inflation, high interest rates, fear of recession or entry into a recession, geopolitical tensions and military conflicts, and healthcare workforce-related stress, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Consumer confidence, shopping behavior and spending have been and may continue to be negatively impacted by factors beyond our control, including supply chain disruptions, inflation, tariffs, high interest rates, fear of recession or entry into a recession, geopolitical tensions and military conflicts, and healthcare workforce-related stress, which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Macroeconomic conditions may adversely affect our business. While we believe our business is largely resistant to recessionary pressures due to the largely non-discretionary nature of scrubwear, consumer spending may decline if general economic conditions deteriorate, and demand for our products has been and may continue to be adversely affected. Significant risks and uncertainty in the global economy have emerged as a result of government policy decisions and geopolitical tensions, and there has been significant shifts in consumer behavior and spending patterns as a result. For example, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine resulted in significant macroeconomic consequences, risks and uncertainties, including increased fuel and energy prices and depressed financial markets, and as a result consumer confidence may continue to be negatively impacted in the future. Other factors affecting consumers’ spending levels include, among others: high interest rates, the size and timing of federal stimulus programs, wages, levels of employment, inflation, recession and fears of recession or depression or entry into a recession or depression, housing costs, energy costs, income tax rates, financial market fluctuations, consumer perceptions of personal well-being and security, availability of consumer credit and consumer debt levels, and consumer confidence in future economic conditions.

Current wording

Macroeconomic conditions may adversely affect our business. While we believe our business is largely resistant to recessionary pressures due to the largely non-discretionary nature of scrubwear, consumer spending may decline if general economic conditions deteriorate, and demand for our products has been and may continue to be adversely affected. Significant risks and uncertainty in the global economy have emerged as a result of government policy decisions and geopolitical tensions, such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and conflict in the Middle east, which have resulted in significant macroeconomic consequences. These have included increased fuel and energy prices and depressed financial markets from time to time, and as a result consumer behavior, confidence and spending patterns have been affected and may continue to be negatively impacted in the future. Other factors affecting consumers’ spending levels include, among others: high interest rates, the size and timing of federal stimulus programs, wages, levels of employment, inflation, recession and fears of recession or depression or entry into a recession or depression, housing costs, energy costs, income tax rates, tariffs, such as those recently announced by the new U.S. presidential administration, financial market fluctuations, consumer perceptions of personal well-being and security, availability of consumer credit and consumer debt levels, and consumer confidence in future economic conditions.

Previous wording

Moreover, our success depends in part on the condition of the healthcare workforce. There have been reports of rising fatigue and stress among workers in the healthcare industry, in part as a result of heightened demand on, and for, healthcare workers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which we believe may be impacting customer purchasing behavior. As a replenishment-driven healthcare apparel brand, demand for our products may be impacted by healthcare workforce-related stress, including if the number of employed healthcare workers were to decline.

Current wording

Moreover, our success depends in part on the condition of the healthcare workforce. There have been reports of elevated fatigue and stress among workers in the healthcare industry, which we believe may be impacting customer purchasing behavior. As a replenishment-driven healthcare apparel brand, demand for our products may be impacted by healthcare workforce-related stress, including if the number of employed healthcare workers were to decline.

Previous wording

The fluctuating cost of raw materials could increase our cost of goods sold and cause our business, financial condition and results of operations to suffer.

Current wording

The fluctuating cost and availability of raw materials could cause our business, financial condition and results of operations to suffer.

Previous wording

We have in the past experienced, and may in the future experience, fluctuations in the cost of raw materials used in our products for reasons beyond our control. For example, our core scrubs fabric includes synthetic fabric, the components of which may experience price fluctuations. Our costs for raw materials are affected by, among other things, weather, customer demand, high interest rates, inflation, geopolitical tensions, volatility in the commodities market, the relative valuations and fluctuations of the currencies of producer versus customer countries and other factors that are generally unpredictable and beyond our control. In addition, the U.S. government’s presumptive import ban on materials mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part in the Xinjiang region of China, the source of a large portion of certain raw materials, including cotton and rayon, may impact global prices and availability of raw materials from which some of our products are made. Increases in the cost of raw materials could adversely affect our cost of goods sold, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We have from time to time experienced, and may in the future experience, fluctuations in the cost and availability of raw materials used in our products for reasons beyond our control. For example, our core scrubs fabric includes synthetic fabric, the components of which may experience price fluctuations. We have also from time to time seen increases in the cost of cotton, which we use in certain of our non-scrubwear products. Our costs for raw materials are affected by, among other things, weather, customer demand, high interest rates, inflation, geopolitical tensions, volatility in the commodities market, the relative valuations and fluctuations of the currencies of producer versus customer countries and other factors that are generally unpredictable and beyond our control.

Previous wording

We rely on a global network of third-party suppliers to manufacture our raw materials, product components and products, and our raw materials, product components and products may be available, in the short-term, from a limited number of sources. We choose not to enter into long-term contracts with any of our suppliers or manufacturers for the production and supply of our raw materials, product components and products, and typically transact business with our suppliers on an order-by-order basis. We also compete with other companies for raw materials, product components and production.

Current wording

We rely on a global network of third-party suppliers to manufacture our raw materials, product components and products, and our raw materials, product components and products may be available, in the short-term, from a limited number of sources. While we currently utilize sourcing agent services to identify potential suppliers and manufacturers and to help manage such relationships, we choose not to enter into long-term contracts with any of our suppliers or manufacturers for the production and supply of our raw materials, product components and products, and typically transact business with our suppliers on an order-by-order basis. We also compete with other companies for raw materials, product components and production.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our supply chain consisted of a diversified network of global production partners spread across multiple continents. Within our supply chain, we source the vast majority of the fabrics used in our products from a limited number of suppliers in China, and we source the other raw materials and product components used in our products, including items such as content labels, elastics, buttons, clasps and drawcords, from suppliers located predominantly in the Asia Pacific region. We also work with manufacturing partners that produce our products in facilities located in South East Asia, China, South America and Jordan, with the vast majority of our products currently in inventory having been produced by a limited number of our largest manufacturing suppliers in South and South East Asia. We are continuously working to strengthen our sourcing and manufacturing capabilities, which includes diversifying manufacturing operations geographically, as well as strategically refining our manufacturing base into fewer high-quality manufacturing partners to improve product quality and consistency. For example, we recently reallocated a material amount of manufacturing geographically, which makes us less dependent on our South East Asia partners. We believe these efforts will enhance our product innovation, quality and lead times across product categories. However, these efforts may subject us to additional risks and costs, which may adversely impact our results of operations in the short term.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our supply chain consisted of a diversified network of global production partners spread across multiple continents. Within our supply chain, we source the vast majority of the fabrics used in our products from a limited number of suppliers in China, and we source the other raw materials and product components used in our products, including items such as content labels, elastics, buttons, clasps and drawcords, from suppliers located predominantly in the Asia Pacific region. We also work with manufacturing partners that produce our products in facilities located in South East Asia, China, South America and Jordan. The majority of our products currently in inventory were produced by a limited number of our largest manufacturing suppliers in South and South East Asia and the majority of production currently occurs at a third party supplier in Jordan, although we are in the process of transitioning away from this supplier, following allegations of labor conditions at this supplier that do not meet our high standards. We are continuously working to strengthen our sourcing and manufacturing capabilities, which includes diversifying manufacturing operations geographically, as well as strategically refining our manufacturing base into high-quality manufacturing partners to improve product quality and consistency. We believe these efforts will enhance our product innovation, quality and lead times across product categories, as well as maintain our commitment to act ethically and with social responsibility in how our products are made. However, these efforts may subject us to additional risks and costs, which may adversely impact our results of operations in the short term.

Previous wording

Our supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products could also be disrupted or delayed by the impact of global conflict or war, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East. Our supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products could also be disrupted or delayed by the impact of health pandemics, such as COVID-19, and the related government and private sector responsive actions, such as border closures, restrictions on product shipments and travel restrictions. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted global supply chains and caused challenges to logistics, including causing ocean freight reliability and capacity issues, increased volatility in ocean freight transit times, port congestion, increased ocean and air freight rates, labor shortages and ocean freight delays. As a result, certain of our ocean freight providers, as well as some of our suppliers and manufacturers, experienced delays and shutdowns, and could experience delays and shutdowns again in the future as a result of COVID-19 or other future pandemic or health crisis. Because of these supply chain challenges, we from time to time contended, and may again contend with, delays receiving finished products from our manufacturers, reduced ability to keep certain products in stock and interrupted product and color launch schedules. In order to manage the impact of these disruptions and meet our customers’ expectations, we from time to time shipped goods earlier when possible, adjusted shipments to alternate origin and destination ports to avoid delays and used faster but more expensive air freight. We may from time to time need to continue to use more expensive air freight, which has in the past and may in the future increase our cost of goods sold. Any delays, interruption or increased costs in the supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products, or extended period of global supply chain disruption, could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet customer demand for our products and result in lower net revenues, increased cost of goods sold and lower net income from operations, both in the short and long term.

Current wording

Our supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products could also be disrupted or delayed by the impact of global conflict or war, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East. Our supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products could also be, and from time to time has been, disrupted or delayed by the impact of pandemics, and the related government and private sector responsive actions, such as border closures, restrictions on product shipments and travel restrictions. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic previously negatively impacted global supply chains and caused challenges to logistics. Because of these supply chain challenges, we from time to time contended, and may again contend with, delays receiving finished products from our manufacturers, reduced ability to keep certain products in stock and interrupted product and color launch schedules. In order to manage the impact of these disruptions and meet our customers’ expectations, we from time to time shipped goods earlier when possible, adjusted shipments to alternate origin and destination ports to avoid delays and used faster but more expensive air freight. We may from time to time need to continue to use more expensive air freight, which has in the past and may in the future increase our cost of goods sold. Any delays, interruption or increased costs in the supply of fabric or the manufacture of our products, or extended period of global supply chain disruption, could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet customer demand for our products and result in lower net revenues, increased cost of goods sold and lower net income from operations, both in the short and long term.

Previous wording

• the imposition of new laws and regulations, including those relating to our due diligence of our supply chain as well as labor conditions, quality and safety standards, imports, duties, taxes and other charges on imports, as well as trade restrictions and restrictions on currency exchange or the transfer of funds;

Current wording

• the imposition of new laws, regulations and executive orders, including those relating to our due diligence and disclosure of our supply chain as well as sustainability, labor conditions, quality and safety standards, imports, duties, tariffs, taxes and other charges on imports, as well as trade restrictions and restrictions on currency exchange or the transfer of funds;

Previous wording

• political unrest, conflict or war, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and violence in the Middle East, terrorism, labor disputes and economic instability resulting in the disruption of trade from foreign countries in which our products are manufactured, and geopolitical tensions or conflicts affecting global trade or resulting in trade barriers or disputes among countries;

Current wording

• political unrest, conflict or war, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East, terrorism, labor disputes and economic instability resulting in the disruption of trade from foreign countries in which our products are manufactured, and geopolitical tensions or conflicts affecting global trade or resulting in trade barriers or disputes among countries;

Previous wording

• the impact of health conditions, such as COVID-19, and related government and private sector responsive actions, and other changes in local economic conditions in countries where our manufacturers, suppliers or customers are located.

Current wording

• the impact of health conditions and related government and private sector responsive actions, and other changes in local economic conditions in countries where our manufacturers, suppliers or customers are located.

Previous wording

We are committed to supporting our communities around the globe. Operating with compassion and integrity is core to our values, which makes our reputation sensitive to allegations of unethical or improper business practices, whether real or perceived. The failure of any of our suppliers or manufacturers to provide safe and humane factory conditions and oversight at their facilities could damage our reputation and brand or result in legal claims against us. While we rely on our manufacturers’ and suppliers’ compliance reporting as well as contractual provisions in our vendor manual in order to comply with regulations applicable to our products, expectations of ethical business practices continually evolve and may be substantially more demanding than applicable legal requirements.

Current wording

We are committed to supporting our communities around the globe. Operating with compassion and integrity is core to our values, which makes our reputation sensitive to allegations of unethical or improper business practices, whether real or perceived. The failure, or alleged failure, of any of our suppliers or manufacturers to provide safe and humane factory conditions and oversight at their facilities could damage our reputation and brand, result in legal claims against us or cause us to seek alternate suppliers or manufacturers. For example, there have been allegations that labor conditions at a Jordanian supplier of ours do not meet our high standards, and as a result, we are in the process of transitioning away from that supplier. While we rely on our manufacturers’ and suppliers’ compliance reporting as well as contractual provisions in our vendor manual in order to comply with regulations applicable to our products, expectations of ethical business practices continually evolve and may be substantially more demanding than applicable legal requirements.

Previous wording

Ethical business practices are also driven in part by legal developments and by groups active in publicizing and organizing public responses to perceived ethical shortcomings. For example, there are increasing expectations in various jurisdictions that companies monitor the environmental and social performance of their suppliers, including compliance with a variety of labor practices, as well as consider a wider range of potential environmental and social matters, including the end of life considerations for products. While we have taken efforts to assess our suppliers, expectations on these matters are evolving rapidly. Compliance can be costly and, in certain cases, require us to design supply chains to avoid certain regions altogether. Failure to comply with such regulations can result in fines, reputational damage, denial of import for our products, or otherwise adversely impact our business. In addition to evaluating the substance of companies’ practices, such groups also often scrutinize companies’ transparency as to such practices and the policies and procedures they use to ensure compliance by their suppliers and other business partners. If we do not meet the transparency standards expected by parties active in promoting ethical business practices, we may attract negative publicity, regardless of whether the actual labor and other business practices adhered to by us and our independent manufacturers are consistent with ethical business practices. Such negative publicity could harm our brand image, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Ethical business practices are also driven in part by legal developments and by groups active in publicizing and organizing public responses to perceived ethical shortcomings. For example, there are varying expectations across jurisdictions that companies monitor the environmental and social performance of their suppliers, including compliance with a variety of labor practices, as well as consider a wider range of potential environmental and social matters, including the end-of-life considerations for products. While we have taken efforts to assess our suppliers, expectations on these matters are evolving rapidly. Compliance can be costly and, in certain cases, require us to design supply chains to avoid certain regions altogether. Failure to comply with such regulations can result in fines, reputational damage, denial of import for our products, or otherwise adversely impact our business. In addition to evaluating the substance of companies’ practices, such groups also often scrutinize companies’ transparency as to such practices and the policies and procedures they use to ensure compliance by their suppliers and other business partners. If we do not meet the transparency standards expected by parties active in promoting ethical business practices, we may attract negative publicity, regardless of whether the actual labor and other business practices adhered to by us and our independent manufacturers are consistent with ethical business practices. Such negative publicity could harm our brand image, business, financial condition and results of operations.